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Everybody Walk Across Pennsylvania, Fall 2026 Week 2 - September 21st

This is the week 2 newsletter for the fall 2026 Everybody Walk Across Pennsylvania Program - week of September 21, 2026. The program is an 8-week virtual biannual program.

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Updated:

September 18, 2026

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Person walking on pavement. Fotorech on pixabay.com CCO

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Penn State Cancer Institute Tip of the Week

This week's Penn State Cancer Institute tip comes from Chelsea Bufalini, MPH, CHES, Senior Research Project Manager with the Penn State Cancer Institute Office of Community Outreach and Engagement

Cervical Cancer Screening: You Can Do It Yourself!

The conversation around cervical cancer has shifted from prevention to elimination (WHO, 2020). Nearly all cervical cancers are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), a common virus that most adults will encounter at some point in their lives (CDC, 2024). While our bodies clear most HPV infections on their own, certain high-risk strains can persist and lead to cancer. Fortunately, cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers. Through HPV vaccination, regular screening, and access to early treatment, we have the tools to eliminate it.

The American Cancer Society and American Academy of Pediatrics (n.d.) recommend the HPV vaccine starting at age 9, before potential exposure to the virus. For screening, the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (2026) recommends Pap tests every 3 years starting at age 21. The recommendation for those 30 to 65 is either a clinician collected HPV test every three years or a combined HPV/Pap co-test every five years. Individuals may also choose HPV self-collection every 3 years, a new, more comfortable screening option.

HPV self-collection was approved by the FDA in 2024, which allows average-risk patients ages 25-65 to collect their own vaginal sample using a gentle swab in a private clinical setting or even at home. No speculum, no stirrups, and no pelvic exam required.

Despite the availability of all of these tools, only 67% of individuals ages 21-65 with a cervix were up to date with their cervical cancer screening in Pennsylvania in 2024 (PA DOH, 2024). The self-collection test is a great option for anyone who has ever delayed screening due to discomfort or access barriers.

Talk to your healthcare provider about which screening option is right for you, and whether you can do it yourself! Together, we can eliminate cervical cancer.

References

American Academy of Pediatrics. (n.d.). Human papillomavirus vaccines.

American Cancer Society. (n.d.). Guideline for human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine use. Retrieved August 18, 2026.

American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Screening for Cervical Cancer (2026). Obstetrics & Gynecology, 148(1), e63-e67.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2024). Cervical cancer basics.

Pennsylvania Department of Health (PA DOH). (2024). C-09: Percent of women who recently had a cervical cancer screening, aged 21 to 65.

World Health Organization (WHO). (2020). Global strategy to accelerate the elimination of cervical cancer as a public health problem.

Photo Scavenger Hunt Collage

America's 250^th: Fort Ligonier

This week, we continue our historical journey at Fort Ligonier in southwestern Pennsylvania. Built in 1758 along Forbes Road, the fort was originally called the Post at Loyalhanna. It was the westernmost major supply base for General John Forbes’ operation and supported the capture of the French stronghold of Fort , 50 miles away, which later became Pittsburgh. Fort Ligonier withstood a French and Native American attack on October 12, 1758, helping to secure British control of the region and contributing to the eventual abandonment of Fort Duquesne by the French.

Fort Ligonier remained an important military post until 1766 and is recognized today as one of the best reconstructed forts of the French and Indian War era in North America. Visitors to Fort Ligonier will see the reconstructed fort, a museum filled with artifacts from the French and Indian War, and exhibits that explore the lives of soldiers, settlers, and Native people. Visitors can take guided tours, see living history demonstrations, and attend other special events. In addition to its educational value, the fort’s connection to the founding of Pittsburgh and the shaping of western Pennsylvania makes it a meaningful place to explore the early history of the United States. A special exhibit titled "To Rise and Fight Again: The Road to Revolution Begins at Fort Ligonier" embed link in title: is currently on site through December 30, 2026.

Reference

Fort Ligonier. (2018). FortLigonier.org. In FortLigonier.org.

Recipe of the Week

Blueberries and Cream Smoothie Recipe Try this yummy smoothie recipe with fresh or frozen blueberries year-round.  

Resource Highlights

Simple Ways to Reduce Your Cancer Risk While our environment, our family history, and our genetics influence our risk of developing cancer, so, too, do the choices we make each day.

Cancer Prevention - Limiting Processed and Red Meats in the Diet Learn how varying the protein foods you eat may reduce your risk of cancer.

Walk by Faith This program is designed for people interested in implementing and/or leading a healthy eating and physical activity program within their organization. Once trained, Walk by Faith leaders will be better prepared to help participants maintain a healthy weight and reduce their risk of cancer. 

Journey to a Healthier Heart Introducing major changes into our daily lives can be challenging. Choosing a heart-healthy lifestyle is like setting off on a journey. It requires a step-by-step approach.